Drug that delays onset of type 1 diabetes approved in England and Wales

From theguardian.com

Availability of teplizumab on the NHS – which postpones early stages of disease for up to three years – described as an ‘incredible moment’

The world’s first drug to delay the onset of type 1 diabetes is to be made available on the NHS in England and Wales, in the biggest breakthrough in tackling the disease for more than a century.

Millions of people have type 1 diabetes worldwide, which typically emerges during childhood or adolescence, and occurs when the pancreas makes little or no insulin. Insulin is a hormone the body uses to allow glucose to enter cells to produce energy.

The immunotherapy, teplizumab, does not cure type 1 diabetes, but postpones its onset for as long as three years, according to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice), which gave the drug the green light on Tuesday.

Its arrival marks a huge step forward. The therapy gives those deemed at high risk of symptomatic type 1 (stage 3) diabetes the chance to delay its onset for the first time in the history of the disease.

By delaying the onset, people will benefit from years of extra time before facing the heavy demands of lifelong diabetes management. Children and teenagers in particular will have more time to reach key developmental milestones before that point.

Nice approved the drug for use in adults and children aged eight and above with early, pre-symptomatic type 1 diabetes (stage 2), enabling them to live more normal lives for longer.

The only other treatment for the disease – insulin – was discovered 105 years ago and does not alter the course of the disease. It simply replaces what patients are missing.

“Today’s landmark approval of teplizumab marks the start of a new age of type 1 diabetes treatment,” said Dr Elizabeth Robertson, director of research at the charity Diabetes UK. “For the first time in 100 years, we are moving beyond insulin, with a medicine that targets the root cause of the condition.

“This is an extraordinary moment for celebration in the type 1 diabetes community, and represents a shift towards a future where type 1 diabetes can be prevented altogether.”

"For the first time in 100 years, we are moving beyond insulin," the Diabetes UK charity said. Photograph: Jeff Moore/PA

Teplizumab, also known as tzield and made by Sanofi, will offer those in the early stages of type 1 diabetes years “free from the relentless demands” of managing the condition with insulin, as well as valuable time to prepare, Robertson said.

“Detecting type 1 diabetes early, before symptoms appear, is key to unlocking these benefits and our focus now is ensuring fair and equitable access for everyone who is eligible.”

Teplizumab trains the immune system to stop attacking pancreatic cells. It is given through a drip into a vein once a day – which takes about 30 minutes – for 14 days in a row.

The dose starts low and gradually increases. Once the 14-day course is complete, that is the end of the treatment.

Karen Addington, chief executive of the diabetes charity Breakthrough T1D, said the drug’s approval marked an “incredible moment” for the type 1 community. “For the first time, we have an immunotherapy that can delay the onset of symptomatic type 1 diabetes.

“If it were your child or someone you love, you would want to do everything possible to give them more years without the daily burden of managing this relentless condition. We now have a treatment that can help make that possible.”

Sanofi has agreed a commercial arrangement with NHS England, the Guardian understands, meaning teplizumab will be available to the NHS at a confidential discounted price.

Helen Knight, director of medicines evaluation at Nice, said the decision to approve the drug was rigorous, transparent and based on the best available evidence, striking a balance between clinical benefit and value for taxpayers.

“This is a genuinely exciting recommendation. For the first time, we have a treatment that can give people diagnosed at an early stage of type 1 diabetes precious extra time before they need to manage the full demands of the condition.”

https://www.theguardian.com/society/2026/jun/23/drug-that-delays-onset-of-type-1-diabetes-approved-in-england-and-wales

New Diabetes Risk Factor Clinicians Are Paying Attention To: Loneliness

From diabetesincontrol.com

When most people think about diabetes risk factors, they picture blood sugar levels, diet, exercise habits, or genetics. However, researchers and clinicians are increasingly focusing on another factor that may have a profound impact on health outcomes: loneliness. The connection between loneliness and diabetes is gaining attention as evidence continues to show that social isolation can influence disease management, healthcare utilization, and overall well-being.

For people living with diabetes, social support often plays a critical role in maintaining healthy behaviours. Yet millions of adults report feeling lonely or socially disconnected. As a result, healthcare professionals are beginning to recognize loneliness as more than a social issue. It may be a significant clinical risk factor that deserves routine assessment and intervention.

Understanding the Link Between Loneliness and Diabetes

Loneliness is a subjective feeling of being disconnected from others, while social isolation refers to an objective lack of social contact. Although the two concepts differ, both have been associated with poorer health outcomes across a range of chronic conditions, including diabetes.

Recent studies suggest that people with diabetes who experience loneliness are more likely to report lower quality of life, higher rates of depression, and increased difficulty managing their condition. Furthermore, loneliness can reduce motivation to engage in healthy behaviours that support blood glucose control.

Researchers have found that social connection often serves as a protective factor. Family members, friends, caregivers, and support groups can encourage medication adherence, healthier eating patterns, and regular physical activity. In contrast, individuals who lack these support systems may struggle to maintain consistent self-care routines.

Moreover, loneliness may contribute to delayed healthcare seeking. Patients who feel disconnected from others are sometimes less likely to attend medical appointments or engage with healthcare providers. Consequently, opportunities for early intervention and preventive care may be missed.

How Social Isolation Affects Diabetes Management

Managing diabetes requires daily attention and ongoing decision-making. Patients must monitor glucose levels, follow treatment plans, make dietary choices, and remain physically active. These responsibilities can become overwhelming when individuals lack emotional or practical support.

One of the strongest associations between social isolation and diabetes management involves medication adherence. Patients who feel isolated may be less likely to take medications consistently or refill prescriptions on time. Additionally, loneliness is often linked to lower self-efficacy, making it harder for individuals to feel confident in managing their condition.

Physical activity also tends to decline among socially isolated individuals. Exercise is frequently more enjoyable and sustainable when performed with others. Without social encouragement, many patients become less active, which can negatively affect glycaemic control and cardiovascular health.

Mental health represents another important consideration. Depression and anxiety occur more frequently among people experiencing loneliness, and both conditions are known to complicate diabetes management. In addition, feelings of loneliness may contribute to diabetes distress, which can make daily self-care feel more difficult.

Healthcare utilization patterns are affected as well. Studies have shown that socially isolated patients may experience higher rates of emergency department visits and hospitalizations. Therefore, identifying loneliness early may help reduce preventable healthcare costs while improving patient outcomes.

The Biological Impact of Loneliness on Metabolic Health

The relationship between social connection and metabolic health extends beyond behaviour. Emerging evidence suggests that social isolation may directly influence physiological processes involved in diabetes outcomes.

Chronic loneliness can activate the body’s stress response system. Elevated levels of stress hormones, particularly cortisol, may contribute to insulin resistance and impaired glucose regulation. Over time, these biological changes can make diabetes management more challenging.

Additionally, loneliness has been associated with increased inflammation. Researchers have identified links between social isolation and higher levels of inflammatory markers, which may contribute to both diabetes progression and cardiovascular complications.

Sleep disturbances also appear to play a role. Individuals experiencing loneliness often report poorer sleep quality and shorter sleep duration. Since sleep is closely connected to glucose metabolism, disrupted sleep patterns can further complicate diabetes control.

Although researchers continue to investigate the underlying mechanisms, the growing body of evidence suggests that social relationships can influence health in ways that extend far beyond emotional well-being.

What Healthcare Systems Are Doing to Address Loneliness

As awareness grows, healthcare organizations are beginning to incorporate social health into routine care. Many experts now view loneliness as a social determinant of health that warrants systematic screening.

Some healthcare systems have introduced questionnaires designed to identify patients at risk for social isolation. Once identified, patients may be referred to community resources, support groups, peer mentoring programs, or social prescribing initiatives.

Digital health technologies are also playing an important role. Virtual support communities, telehealth visits, and online diabetes education programs can help patients maintain meaningful connections, especially when geographic or mobility barriers exist.

Healthcare providers are increasingly encouraged to ask patients about their social support networks during routine visits. While addressing loneliness may not replace traditional diabetes treatments, it can complement existing care plans and improve patient engagement.

Organizations such as the American Diabetes Association and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continue to emphasize the importance of psychosocial factors in diabetes care. Likewise, patients seeking additional support may benefit from professional guidance through resources such as Healthcare.pro and diabetes-focused educational platforms like Diabetes In Control.

Conclusion

The growing evidence linking loneliness and diabetes highlights an important shift in how clinicians approach chronic disease management. While blood glucose levels, medications, and lifestyle interventions remain essential, social connection is increasingly recognized as a factor that influences health outcomes.

Loneliness can affect medication adherence, physical activity, mental health, and healthcare utilization. Furthermore, emerging research suggests that social isolation may directly impact biological pathways involved in glucose regulation and inflammation. As healthcare systems continue to integrate social health assessments into routine care, addressing loneliness may become an important component of comprehensive diabetes management.

FAQs

Can loneliness increase the risk of developing diabetes?

Research suggests that chronic loneliness and social isolation may contribute to risk factors such as stress, inflammation, and unhealthy lifestyle behaviours that can increase diabetes risk.

How does loneliness affect diabetes management?

Loneliness may reduce medication adherence, decrease physical activity, worsen mental health, and make it more difficult for patients to maintain self-care routines.

Is social isolation different from loneliness?

Yes. Social isolation refers to having limited social contact, while loneliness is the subjective feeling of being disconnected from others.

Can support groups help people with diabetes?

Many studies indicate that support groups can improve motivation, self-management skills, emotional well-being, and treatment adherence.

Should healthcare providers screen for loneliness?

Many experts now recommend screening for loneliness and social isolation because these factors can significantly influence chronic disease outcomes.

This content is not medical advice. For any health issues, always consult a healthcare professional. In an emergency, call 911 or your local emergency services.

https://www.diabetesincontrol.com/loneliness-and-diabetes/ 

Soda vs. Juice: Which Is Worse for Blood Sugar?

From eatingwell.com

You may think juice is healthier than soda, but both can have a surprisingly similar effect on blood sugar 

KEY POINTS

• Soda and 100% fruit juice can both raise blood sugar, especially when you drink them without food.
• Unlike soda, 100% fruit juice contains vitamins and minerals and no added sugar.
• Dietitians recommend keeping portions small for both—about 4 ounces at once.

Soda and 100% fruit juice have more in common than you might think. They're sweet, easy to drink quickly and widely available in single-serve bottles, cans and cartons. But a closer look shows they're not exactly the same—some drinks are made with added sugars and little else, while others come with nutrients from fruit.

But is one worse for blood sugar than the other? It depends. When we asked dietitians, they agreed that both can affect blood sugar, but portion size, how often you drink them and what else you're eating can make a difference. Here's what to know about how soda and fruit juice compare, and how to make the best choice for you.

                                                                                                    Credit: Getty Images. EatingWell Design

Soda and Blood Sugar

Most regular sodas are essentially carbonated water plus added sugar and flavouring, with little else to offer nutritionally. That means the sugar enters your bloodstream quickly, with no fibre, fat or protein to slow it down.

A standard 12-ounce can of regular cola has about 37 to 40 grams of added sugar, depending on the brand—more than the 25-gram daily limit the American Heart Association recommends for women and just over the 36-gram limit for men.

American Heart Association. How much sugar is too much?

And it doesn't take much to raise your blood sugar. "About 4 ounces of regular soda can provide around 15 grams of carbohydrate, which is enough to noticeably raise blood sugar for some people, especially those with diabetes, prediabetes or insulin resistance," says Olayide Adejumobi, RDN, LD, a registered dietitian. This is especially the case when soda is consumed without a meal that includes protein, fibre and fat, which help delay the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream.

What's most important is how often you drink soda. Research has consistently linked regular soda consumption to a higher risk of type 2 diabetes. Among people who already have type 2 diabetes, each additional daily serving of a sugar-sweetened beverage has been linked to an 8% higher risk of all-cause mortality.

An occasional soda won't cause significant harm, but drinking them more frequently could interfere with efforts to balance blood sugar.

Juice and Blood Sugar

Juice is often thought of as a healthier option than soda, but it can still affect blood sugar. What's different is that the sweetness usually comes from the fruit itself rather than added sugar. Unfortunately, the juicing process strips away fibre that helps slow the rate at which sugar enters your bloodstream.

"Unlike soda, 100% juice can provide vitamins, minerals and beneficial plant compounds like polyphenols, depending on the fruit. Purple grape juice, for example, contains antioxidants, while orange juice provides adequate amounts of vitamin C and potassium," says Jennifer Rawlings, MS, RDN, CDCES, a registered dietitian and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist. "Those nutrients do matter, and they make juice a more nutrient-dense option than soda."

A 12-ounce glass of 100% orange juice provides more than 100% of the daily value for vitamin C, along with potassium and naturally occurring plant compounds called polyphenols. It also contains about 30 grams of sugar.

Compared with a sugar-sweetened orange drink, 100% orange juice has been shown to produce a lower daily blood glucose response and reduce food intake at the next meal. The polyphenols in 100% fruit juice may also contribute to favourable effects on cardiometabolic markers like blood pressure and cholesterol.

"100% fruit juice provides vitamins, minerals and plant compounds that soda does not, but I still recommend whole fruit most often because it provides fibre and is more filling," says Adejumobi.

Which Is Worse for Blood Sugar?

Soda and juice can have surprisingly similar effects on blood sugar. Both deliver sugar in liquid form, and both can raise your blood sugar quickly when you drink them on their own.

"Liquid sugar—whether from soda or 100% fruit juice—spikes blood sugar faster than whole food sources, mostly due to the lack of fibre," says Rawlings. "The key difference is that 100% juice typically contains no added sugar and includes nutrients that soda lacks."

Research has consistently linked sugar-sweetened beverages like soda to a higher risk of type 2 diabetes, while 100% fruit juice in moderate amounts has not shown the same connection. Soda also tends to come in larger single servings than juice, which means more sugar per beverage.

But juice doesn't get a free pass. "Portion size matters—drinking a large amount of juice can affect blood sugar as much or more than soda. In healthy young adults, higher sugar fruit juice from mango or papaya has been shown to produce a higher blood sugar spike than apple or orange juice," says Rawlings.

A small glass of 100% juice is a better choice than a 12-ounce can of soda, but frequency is the more important factor. Drinking either one occasionally isn't a huge concern for most people, but drinking them every day may make it hard to control blood sugar over time.

Our Expert Take

Soda and 100% fruit juice can both raise blood sugar, especially when you drink them without food, but they're not nutritionally equal. Soda contains added sugar and doesn’t include the vitamins, minerals and beneficial plant compounds that juice has.

The best choice for stable blood sugar is usually water, unsweetened tea or another low- or no-sugar beverage. If you choose to enjoy a sweet beverage, dietitians recommend keeping portions small—about 4 ounces—and pairing it with a balanced meal that includes protein, fibre and healthy fat.

https://www.eatingwell.com/soda-vs-juice-which-is-worse-for-blood-sugar-12001925

Is Diabetes Making People Age Faster? What the New Science Reveals

From diabetesincontrol.com

For decades, scientists have known that people with type 2 diabetes face a higher risk of heart disease, kidney disease, cognitive decline, and other age-related conditions. However, emerging research suggests these complications may be linked to something even more fundamental: accelerated biological aging in diabetes. In other words, diabetes may not simply increase the risk of diseases associated with aging. It may also cause the body to age faster at the cellular level.

Today, researchers are using advanced biomarkers and epigenetic tools to understand how chronic metabolic stress affects aging. As a result, a clearer picture is emerging of the biological mechanisms that connect diabetes, inflammation, cellular damage, and age-related decline.

Biological Age and Why It Matters

Most people think of age as the number of years they have lived. This is known as chronological age. However, biological age reflects how well the body’s cells, tissues, and organs are functioning compared with that number.

Two people can both be 60 years old and still have very different biological ages. One may have the health profile of someone much younger, while the other may show signs of faster physical decline. Therefore, researchers increasingly believe that biological age may offer a clearer view of long-term health risks.

This concept has become especially important in diabetes research. Studies suggest that people with type 2 diabetes often show aging markers that exceed what would be expected based on chronological age alone. Consequently, scientists are investigating whether diabetes-related biological aging contributes directly to complications, frailty, and reduced lifespan.

Moreover, biological aging is not caused by one single factor. Instead, it reflects a complex mix of genetics, lifestyle, inflammation, metabolic health, and environmental exposures. Diabetes appears to affect many of these pathways at the same time.

How Diabetes May Accelerate Aging at the Cellular Level

Several biological mechanisms may help explain accelerated aging in people with diabetes. Chronic high blood glucose is one of the most important contributors.

When glucose levels remain elevated over time, cells experience increased oxidative stress. This process creates harmful molecules called free radicals, which can damage proteins, fats, and DNA. As a result, tissues may lose function more quickly.

Inflammation also plays a major role. People with type 2 diabetes often have persistent low-grade inflammation. Although inflammation is part of the body’s natural defence system, chronic inflammation can gradually injure healthy tissues. Researchers often call this process “inflammaging,” which describes the overlap between inflammation and aging.

Another key factor is cellular senescence. Senescent cells no longer divide normally, but they remain active in the body. Instead of helping tissues repair themselves, they release inflammatory signals that may harm nearby cells. Therefore, diabetes may encourage the build-up of these dysfunctional cells and contribute to faster tissue aging.

In addition, diabetes is linked with changes in DNA methylation. These epigenetic changes affect how genes behave without changing the genetic code itself. Over time, these shifts may influence aging pathways and increase the risk of chronic disease.

Epigenetic Clocks and New Aging Biomarkers

One of the most promising areas in aging science is the development of epigenetic clocks. These tools estimate biological age by analysing DNA methylation patterns across the genome.

One widely studied biomarker is PhenoAge, which combines clinical measures and epigenetic information to estimate biological aging. Researchers have found that people with diabetes may show higher biological age scores than people without diabetes who are the same chronological age.

Another important tool is DunedinPACE. Rather than estimating total biological age, DunedinPACE measures the pace of aging. In other words, it helps researchers see how quickly physiological decline may be happening over time.

These biomarkers offer important advantages. Instead of waiting many years to observe complications, investigators can measure aging-related changes much earlier. Consequently, scientists may be able to study whether treatments, lifestyle changes, or weight loss interventions influence biological aging before traditional outcomes appear.

Furthermore, these tools may help explain why some people with diabetes develop complications more quickly than others. Even when glucose control looks similar, differences in inflammation, metabolic stress, and epigenetic aging may affect long-term outcomes.

Can Modern Diabetes Therapies Slow Biological Aging?

Although research is still developing, there is growing interest in whether certain diabetes treatments may help slow the accelerated aging processes seen in people with diabetes.

Improved glucose control remains the foundation of diabetes care. Lowering long-term glucose exposure may reduce oxidative stress, inflammation, and cellular damage. Therefore, keeping glucose levels in a healthy target range remains one of the most important ways to protect long-term health.

Researchers are also studying newer therapies, including GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT2 inhibitors. These medications have shown benefits beyond glucose lowering, including cardiovascular and kidney protection. As a result, scientists are asking whether they may also influence aging pathways.

Early evidence suggests that these therapies may help reduce inflammation, improve metabolic function, and support cellular resilience. However, more research is needed before experts can say whether they directly slow biological aging.

Lifestyle changes remain equally important. Regular physical activity, healthy nutrition, weight management, quality sleep, and smoking cessation may all support healthier aging. In fact, these habits can influence inflammation, insulin sensitivity, epigenetic aging, and overall healthspan.

As aging biomarkers become more refined, future diabetes care may focus not only on glucose targets but also on protecting long-term cellular health.

Conclusion

The emerging science surrounding diabetes-related biological aging is reshaping how researchers view the disease. Rather than being only a disorder of glucose regulation, diabetes may influence aging pathways that affect nearly every organ system.

Advanced biomarkers such as PhenoAge and DunedinPACE are helping scientists understand how chronic metabolic stress may alter biological age. Meanwhile, growing evidence points to inflammation, oxidative stress, cellular senescence, and epigenetic changes as key contributors to faster aging in people with diabetes.

Although many questions remain, this research offers a more complete view of diabetes and long-term health. In the future, slowing biological aging may become an important goal alongside glucose control, cardiovascular protection, and complication prevention.

FAQs

What is accelerated biological aging in diabetes?

This term refers to the observation that people with diabetes may experience cellular and molecular aging changes that occur more rapidly than expected for their chronological age.

How is biological age different from chronological age?

Chronological age measures how many years a person has lived. Biological age reflects how well the body’s cells, tissues, and organs are functioning.

What are epigenetic clocks?

Epigenetic clocks are tools that estimate biological age by measuring DNA methylation patterns across the genome.

What is DunedinPACE?

DunedinPACE is a biomarker that measures the pace of biological aging, rather than simply estimating a person’s biological age.

Can diabetes treatments slow biological aging?

Some treatments and lifestyle changes may affect aging-related pathways, including inflammation and metabolic stress. However, more research is needed to confirm whether they directly slow biological aging.

Disclaimer: This content is not medical advice. For any health issues, always consult a healthcare professional. In an emergency, call 911 or your local emergency services.

https://www.diabetesincontrol.com/accelerated-biological-aging-in-diabetes/ 

The 5 Best High-Fibre Foods for Diabetes, According to a Dietitian

From eatingwell.com

Eating more high-fibre foods is a simple yet effective way to help manage blood sugar levels 

KEY POINTS

• Fibre helps minimize blood sugar spikes and is essential for diabetes management.
• Chickpeas, chia seeds, edamame, raspberries and avocados are top high-fibre foods for diabetes.
• Increase fibre intake gradually to minimize digestive side effects.

Fibre plays a crucial role in supporting overall health, particularly for individuals with diabetes. One of its most significant benefits is its ability to help regulate blood sugar levels.

By slowing the digestion and absorption of glucose, fibre helps prevent sharp spikes and crashes in blood sugar, promoting a steadier rise after meals. Unlike other carbohydrates that are broken down into glucose for energy, fibre passes through our digestive system largely intact, helping to moderate how quickly glucose enters the bloodstream. This makes it an important component of effective diabetes management.

Incorporating more fibre into your meals doesn't require a complete diet overhaul. With so many fibre-rich foods available, it's easy to find options that fit your preferences and dietary needs. Let's explore some of the best high-fibre foods that can help you manage blood sugar levels while keeping your meals balanced and satisfying.

1. Chickpeas 

Chickpeas (aka garbanzo beans) are a versatile, high-fibre addition to any salad, sauté or grain bowl. A ½-cup serving of canned chickpeas provides about 7 grams of protein, 20 grams of carbohydrates and 6 grams of fibre.

U.S. Department of Agriculture. FoodData Central. Chickpeas, from canned, reduced sodium.

The fibre and protein help slow the digestion of the carbohydrates in the chickpeas, resulting in a slower-steadier rise in blood sugar levels—an important benefit for individuals with diabetes.

For an easy way to enjoy more chickpeas, try making your own hummus.

2. Chia Seeds 

Chia seeds are a fibre powerhouse. Just one tablespoon (½ ounce) provides nearly 5 grams of fibre, along with 2 grams of protein. This combination can help slow digestion and promote steadier blood sugar levels, making chia seeds a smart choice for diabetes management.

Research suggests that chia seeds may offer additional cardiometabolic benefits, thanks to their unique combination of fibre, plant-based protein and omega-3 fatty acids. However, more research is needed to better understand their effects on blood sugar control.

Chia seeds are also incredibly versatile. Add them to overnight oats, smoothies, yogurt or salads For an easy fibre boost.

3. Edamame 

Edamame is a nutritious food packed with both protein and fibre. One cup of shelled edamame provides 18 grams of protein, 13 grams of carbohydrates and 8 grams of fibre.

U.S. Department of Agriculture. FoodData Central. Edamame, frozen, prepared.

 The high protein and fibre content help slow down the digestion of these tasty green soybeans, making them a great addition to a diabetes-friendly eating pattern.

There are so many different ways to incorporate edamame into your diet. Add ½ cup shelled edamame to any salad for a plant-based protein boost, or boil frozen edamame, season lightly with salt and enjoy it as a high-protein snack at any time. Going out for sushi? Consider ordering edamame as an appetizer. Starting a meal out with a protein- and fibre-rich food may help you feel satisfied until your entrees arrive and support more balanced portions throughout the meal.

4. Raspberries 

Raspberries are an excellent fruit option for people with diabetes with 1 cup providing about 8 grams of fibre and 14 grams of carbohydrates. In fact, research suggests that red raspberry consumption is linked to improvements in glucose handling and insulin sensitivity.

There are tons of ways to incorporate raspberries into your diet. Enjoy them raw, add them to salads or sprinkle them into a yogurt parfait. Since fresh raspberries can be expensive and spoil quickly, frozen raspberries are a convenient and budget-friendly option that also extends shelf life.

5. Avocados 

Avocados are well known for their healthy fats, but they're also an excellent source of fibre—one avocado provides nearly 14 grams of fibre. Plus, avocados are rich in unsaturated fat, a type of fat with heart healthy benefits. Together, the fibre and fat in avocados make them a slow-digesting food that can help promote steadier blood sugar levels.

While avocado toast is a popular option, there are many other ways to enjoy this creamy fruit. Add mashed avocado to sandwiches, or add cubed avocado to salads for extra fibre and healthy fats. If you have avocados that are starting to over-ripen, peel, pit and freeze them. Frozen avocado cubes can also be blended into smoothies for added creaminess, fibre and healthy fat.

Our Expert Take

Fibre is an important nutrient to include in any eating pattern, especially if you have diabetes. But remember, increasing your fibre intake should be a slow and steady endeavour, as eating too much fibre right off the bat can lead to some unpleasant digestive symptoms. The good news is that boosting fibre doesn't require a major diet overhaul. Simple additions of high-fibre foods—like chickpeas, chia seeds, edamame, raspberries and avocados—throughout the day can make a meaningful difference over time.

https://www.eatingwell.com/best-high-fiber-foods-for-diabetes-11981086